Carter said the University was surprised and very pleased with the overwhelming response to the ceremony. He said numerous applications and calls have come from out of state with veterans wishing to attend the ceremony.

He also noted that between 30 and 40 veterans expressed their intent to attend the ceremony. Carter said they were not expecting a large turnout and were thrilled to hear of the number planning to attend.

The ceremony is honoring soldiers of the 25 U.S. Army divisions that trained in Middle Tennessee between 1941 and 1944. Of those units, 22 served in combat in Europe, and the 44th Tank Battalion was separated from the 12th Armored Division and saw combat in the Pacific Theater.

Carter said the day is to begin with exhibits and interactive displays for veterans to see and touch the vehicles and equipment they used in their training here. Also, photos from the maneuvers will be on display.

The ceremony will begin promptly at 10 a.m. with the awarding of the degrees and a light lunch and refreshments will follow with additional time for veterans to view the exhibits.

We are in the process of finalizing the agenda right now, he said.

Carter said any veterans who are unable to attend may receive their degrees by mail and noted the families of deceased veterans who participated in the maneuvers can be awarded degrees in memoriam.

To contact Cumberland University about the ceremony, you may call 547-1387 or email veterans@cumberland.edu. Also, for more information, visit www.cumberland.edu/veterans.